Praying

But the children struggled together within her; and she said, “If all is well, why am I like this?” So she went to inquire of the Lord. Genesis 25:22 NKJV

Biblical scholars have described Rebekah as follows: beautiful, vivacious, friendly, outgoing, unselfish, energetic, and possessing a servant’s heart. That’s quite a resume, but there was more. She’s also identified as hospitable and humble. It’s interesting to discover that even with all those remarkable qualities, something’s been overlooked. What was it? Prayerful. Rebekah was also prayerful. How do I know? I see it in God’s Word. The Bible says, “So she went to inquire of the Lord.”

During a stressful and difficult, long-awaited pregnancy, Rebekah sought divine guidance. Although I see no mention of her faithfulness in prayer, I see it here. At a time in her life when she lacked understanding, was uncomfortable, and frightened, she followed Isaac’s lead and turned to God for wisdom. Rebekah prayed! No doubt this was not an inaugural prayer to an unknown God. Rebekah had been married to a prayer warrior for 20 years. After waiting two decades to conceive and birth children, when she knew something was wrong in her womb, she’d sought trustworthy counsel – God’s. She wasn’t interested in the run-of-the-mill, ordinary, everyday commentary of well-meaning folks either. That’s significant because it reveals Rebekah’s relationship with God and her faith. Trials should bring us to our knees, as they did Rebekah. Watch this. Since our first response is spontaneous and without much forethought, it’s telling. It reveals the measure of our faith. God already knows the depth of our faith, but He wants us to know it too. So, where do we turn in times of crisis? Some turn to the internet and search the world wide web for advice and counsel. It's shocking how many will seek and accept advice from unknown sources. Others seek counsel from friends and relatives, knowing that their opinion is not always impartial. Still, others seek guidance from so-called experts in their field. But I ask you, "Who credentials are better than God's? Nonetheless, even believers overlook going to God and seeking His divine counsel - first. We must remember, His counsel is always ideal - regardless. Because He loves you and has good things planned for you, He would never lead you astray.

Prayer: Mighty and gracious Lord, keep us purposeful in prayer. May we seek you first and trust in your plan for our lives, despite the way we feel. Help us remember that faith is not based on a feeling. Thankfully, it's based on a promise – yours – and you are a promise-keeping God. Amen and amen.